(Approx 1 minute 45 second read) I started my ‘journey’ in 1974 and now everything I do carries the lessons and experiences of the Sensei I have trained under. Their insights, wisdom, and guidance have shaped my understanding, and in many ways, they walk with me still. . Throughout life, we encounter mentors who leave […]
Walking with My Teachers – A Moment of Reflection. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 50 second read) I thought I would write a little more about “Buddhism”. . I’m not a buddhist by any means, but I like to think I practice some of their principles. I’m not here to preach or to convert anyone; I just want to share with you some of the principles
Inner Peace, Outer Strength: Exploring Buddhist Principles for Martial Artists. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 5 second read) I like to think that I follow some of the Buddhist principles. I’m not a Buddhist though, by any means. I make a lot of mistakes – probably more than would be tolerated within the principles they follow. But one idea that has always resonated with me is the
The Mindful Path: Living in the Moment, A Glimpse at Buddhism. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 5 second read) Those moments of stillness are pretty rare these days aren’t they. Our minds are constantly occupied – planning, analyzing, worrying, reacting. Always doing something, always thinking. . There are times where we just need to switch off. . Have you ever caught yourself just staring into space, not thinking
‘Boketto’: The Absence of Thought, with The Clarity Found in Stillness. Read More »
Why do people obsess over things? . It appears that different people obsess over things for different reasons, and some people are more prone to it than others. . You may want to make sense of a situation but can’t seem to understand or accept it, so you keep replaying it. Other people want reassurance
(Approx 1 minute 30 second read) “If you know the Way broadly, you will see it in everything.” – Miyamoto Musashi . Someone commented on one of my articles saying that practical karate people are just looking for moves in MMA to match what they do. . Actually, no. That’s the wrong way around. You
“If you know the Way broadly, you will see it in everything.” Read More »
There are instructors who teach you how to learn the techniques of karate, making them inch perfect, and there are instructors who teach the techniques alongside the underlying principles. Helping you find a deeper understanding. . But to truly grasp all that karate has to offer – for genuine proficiency – I believe you also
In the Silence, the Lessons Begin: A Reminder That the Sensei Won’t Always Be There. Read More »
(Approx 1 minute 45 second read) The beginning of a New Year is a time when many set resolutions and goals, hoping to start strong and make meaningful changes. Yet, so often, these aspirations fall by the wayside. Why? Life gets in the way, and for many, the mental resilience to push through challenges hasn’t
Where Commitment Finds a Home: Dedication. Read More »
The journey in the martial arts, like life, is not just about physical techniques. It’s about the personal growth that comes with the process. When you commit to the path, you’re committing to becoming a better person, day by day, year by year. . It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the demands of others or
The Martial Arts Are Like a Mirror: They Reflect Your Strengths and your Weaknesses. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 40 second read) There comes a point in time, after many years of hard work, teaching, and dedicated training, when instructors begin to entertain the idea of going it alone. It’s a natural progression in any art or profession. After decades of practice and immersion, the question arises: What’s next? . What
The Crossroads of Independence: Breaking Free and Knowing When It’s Time to Go Alone. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 20 second read) Yue Fei, a legendary general from the Song Dynasty, is a figure whose legacy resonates across cultures and martial traditions. . Though Yue Fei lived in 12th-century China, his story symbolizes universal martial virtues. He is remembered for his loyalty, discipline, and moral integrity – principles echoed throughout the
Echoes of Loyalty: The Honor and Discipline of Yue Fei. Read More »
(Approx 1 minute 55 second read) At some point in our lives, we’ve all held grudges. It’s a natural reaction when someone wrongs or frustrates us. But as martial artists, we are taught to rise above our emotions, to channel them constructively rather than letting them control us. Yet, grudges and resentment can creep in,
The True Opponent: Ourselves – The Silent, and Sometimes Not-So-Silent, Enemy. Read More »
